Home care program and exercise prescription for improving quality of life in geriatric population with knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Knee Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative bone disease commonly affecting the elderly. Exercise has emerged as a primary treatment strategy for individuals with knee OA. Various exercise regimes are now recognized as key approaches in managing OA. Objective: To evaluate the impact of a Home Care program combined with Exercise prescriptions on the quality of life in the geriatric population with knee OA. Methods and materials: This review was conducted following a systematic approach to search for relevant articles in electronic databases. Studies published between 2011 and 2021 were included, following the PRISMA Guidelines. The databases screened included PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, PEDro, MEDLINE, and EMBASE, using medical subject headings (MeSH) and Health Science Description (DeSC) terms. Results: A total of 12 studies involving participants undergoing home care programs and exercise prescriptions for OA were identified. The review findings indicated significant improvements in pain management and quality of life for individuals adhering to a structured home care program and therapist-guided exercise prescription. Conclusion: The review suggests that implementing a home care program alongside an appropriate exercise regimen can enhance the quality of life in geriatric patients with knee OA, improving adherence to physical activity and overall patient outcomes.